Tagliatelle with Spinach and Cherry Tomatoes
Tagliatelle with spinach and cherry tomatoes is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients to create a vibrant and satisfying meal. This recipe offers a fusion of flavors, with the earthiness of spinach perfectly complementing the sweetness of cherry tomatoes. The pasta is enhanced by the nutty crunch of peanuts and a touch of balsamic vinegar for a hint of tanginess. The simplicity of preparation makes it an ideal choice for both weekday dinners and special occasions. Each bite is deliciously rewarding, offering a combination of textures and tastes that are both healthy and fulfilling. The dish is garnished with grated cheese, adding a creamy finish to every forkful. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Enjoy it with family, friends, or a cozy night in by yourself. The recipe is versatile, allowing for substitutions to cater to different dietary needs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 400 g tagliatelle pasta
- 100 g fresh spinach
- 60 g peanuts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for cooking
- 100 g onions
- 16 cherry tomatoes, halved
Spices and Sauces:
- 1/2 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Santa Maria pasta seasoning (optional)
- Santa Maria sea salt (to taste)
Preparation Time
Total Time: 35 minutes (including preparation and cooking)
Step-by-Step Instruction
- Begin by cooking the tagliatelle pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water. Cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Roughly chop the peanuts into small pieces and lightly roast them in a dry pan over medium heat. This will enhance their nutty flavor.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions to the pan and sauté until they turn golden brown, stirring occasionally.
- Sprinkle the sugar over the onions, allowing it to melt and caramelize slightly.
- Pour the balsamic vinegar over the onions and cook for an additional 2 minutes, letting the flavors deepen.
- Meanwhile, wash the spinach thoroughly and remove any tough stems. Add the spinach to the skillet with the onions, cooking until it wilts slightly.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan along with the roasted peanuts and toss everything together gently.
- Season the mixture with the Santa Maria pasta seasoning and sea salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
- Incorporate the cooked tagliatelle into the skillet, tossing the pasta with the sauce until it's well-coated.
- Allow the entire mixture to heat through for a few minutes. Ensure each ingredient is evenly distributed throughout the pasta.
- Once heated, remove the skillet from the heat and transfer the tagliatelle to a serving dish.
- Grate some cheese over the top of the pasta if desired, enhancing the richness of the dish.
- Serve immediately while hot, allowing the flavors to be at their best.
- For best results, garnish with fresh basil leaves or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil if you have on hand.
- Pair the dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for complementary textures and flavors.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Reheat leftovers gently in a microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if the pasta becomes dry.
- Experiment with adding different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variation.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during sautéing.
- Enjoy your homemade tagliatelle with spinach and cherry tomatoes, filled with fresh and appetizing flavors!
Tips
- Substitutions: Swap peanuts for pine nuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
- Techniques: Ensure the onions are caramelized properly for a sweeter taste.
- Dietary Needs: Use gluten-free tagliatelle if necessary.
Nutritions (per serving)
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Protein: 14 g
- Fats: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
Variations
- Vegetarian: This recipe is already vegetarian, but add tofu or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Vegan: Substitute cheese with nutritional yeast.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a side of crusty garlic bread.
Best Places
- La Pasta Bistro - Known for its exquisite homemade pasta and fresh ingredients. Location: 123 Pasta Street, Florence, Italy.
- Tomato & Basil Authentic - Offers authentic Italian flavor with a modern twist. Location: 987 Roma Avenue, Rome, Italy.
- Spinach Delight - Celebrates vegetables with a creative culinary style. Location: 45 Veggie Lane, New York, USA.
- Gusto Italiano - A cozy spot with homemade sauces that are a must-try. Location: 78 Olive Blvd, Los Angeles, USA.
- The Pasta House - Features traditional recipes from generations back. Location: 234 Main St, Boston, USA.
- Traditional Twists Café - Known for innovative takes on classic dishes. Location: 56 Culinary Cres, Sydney, Australia.
- Flavorful Find - Offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Location: 19 Savory Road, London, UK.
- Noodle Nirvana - A haven for pasta lovers with adventurous palates. Location: 345 Delight Ave, Paris, France.
- Healthy Harvest - Focuses on fresh, wholesome ingredients in every dish. Location: 88 Freshland St, Dublin, Ireland.
- Herby Haven - Provides an array of herb-infused creations. Location: 67 Botanical Blvd, Amsterdam, Netherlands.